Crack Burger Recipe: The Easy Addictive Burger You Can’t Resist

Burgers have come a long way from being just fast-food staples. Today, the crack burger recipe has taken the culinary world by storm, thanks to its irresistible combination of flavors that keep you coming back for more. Imagine biting into a juicy, perfectly seasoned beef patty, topped with a creamy cheese mixture blended with crispy bacon, all nestled between buttery toasted buns. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about making your very own crack burger right at home. From its intriguing name to expert tips inspired by culinary icons like Gordon Ramsay, we’re diving deep into every delicious detail. You’ll learn how to create these addictive burgers with simple ingredients, master the perfect sear, and even explore the famous 5-6-7 grilling rule to achieve mouthwatering perfection.

Don’t miss our quick and easy recipe collections that will help you whip up incredible dishes like these burgers in no time Discover great ideas like our Quick & Easy recipes. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this crack burger recipe is guaranteed to steal the show.

Now let’s dive into what makes the crack burger so special.

The Ultimate Crack Burger Recipe Introduction

The Irresistible Popularity of the Crack Burger

The crack burger recipe didn’t just become popular overnight. It earned its addictive reputation through a perfect balance of rich, savory flavors and mouthwatering textures that hook you from the first bite. What sets it apart from traditional burgers is the indulgent combination of juicy ground beef, creamy ranch-seasoned cheese mixture, crispy bacon, and sweet caramelized onions. Each layer works harmoniously, creating a flavor profile that’s simply unforgettable.

Foodies everywhere have fallen in love with this burger not just because it’s easy to make, but because it delivers a restaurant-quality experience right at home. The name itself suggests that it’s almost impossible to have just one once you taste it, you’ll find yourself craving more. Social media platforms are flooded with countless home cooks proudly showcasing their own crack burger creations, each adding their own twist while staying true to its core flavors.

How This Recipe Became a Sensation

The rise of the crack burger recipe can be traced back to backyard BBQs, family dinners, and viral food blogs where simple yet indulgent recipes shine. Inspired by a combination of Southern comfort food and modern gourmet trends, this burger became a staple for those seeking comfort and satisfaction in every bite. It’s not just about throwing a patty on a bun; it’s about building layers of flavor that make the burger unforgettable.

Part of its viral appeal also stems from how forgiving and customizable it is. Home cooks of any skill level can successfully recreate this addictive burger, adjusting ingredients to suit personal tastes while preserving its signature richness. You can swap cheeses, experiment with different buns, or even throw the patties on the grill instead of a skillet. There are countless options to try, but they all turn out tasty in the end.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Natural Mounjaro Recipe for Amazing Fat-Burning Results if you want something light to balance out your indulgent burger night.

What Is a Crack Burger?

The Origin and Meaning Behind the Name

At first glance, the term crack burger might raise some eyebrows. No, it’s not related to anything illegal. The name playfully refers to just how addictive this burger is. Every bite delivers a burst of flavors so satisfying that it’s nearly impossible to stop eating. It hooks you instantly, much like the irresistible allure suggested by its name.

The crack burger recipe draws from comfort food traditions that emphasize rich, savory ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Its defining elements, juicy beef, ranch seasoning, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and caramelized onions, create a symphony of flavors and textures that appeal to almost every palate. This addictive quality is what led food lovers to coin the name, highlighting the burger’s crave-worthy nature.

While its exact origin isn’t tied to a specific chef or restaurant, the crack burger spread rapidly through food blogs, family cookouts, and social media platforms. It became a viral sensation as home cooks started replicating and personalizing the recipe, each version staying true to its addictive nature.

Crack Burger Recipe: The Easy Addictive Burger You Can’t Resist

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• Author: Emily Smith
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 2 burgers 1x

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Description

This crack burger recipe is the ultimate comfort food, juicy beef patties seasoned with ranch, topped with a creamy cheddar-bacon mix, caramelized onions, and nestled in buttery toasted buns. It’s savory, cheesy, and so addictive you’ll want it on repeat all year round.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

300g ground beef (80/20)

1 tbsp ranch seasoning

¼ tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

3 oz shredded cheddar cheese

2 tbsp mayonnaise

3 tbsp crumbled bacon

1 chopped onion

2 burger buns

1 tbsp melted butter 

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Instructions

1. Make the Patties: In a bowl, mix the ground beef with ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper. Form into two evenly sized patties.

2. Make the Cheese Topping: In a separate bowl, mix cheddar, mayo, bacon, and ranch seasoning until smooth.

3. Cook the Patties: Heat a skillet over medium-high. Cook patties for 8–10 minutes, flipping once. Add cheese topping in the last 2 minutes and cover to melt.

4. Caramelize Onions: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and cook chopped onion for 5–6 minutes until golden and softened.

5. Toast the Buns: Brush insides with melted butter and toast in a pan until golden.

6. Assemble: Place caramelized onions on the bottom bun, add cheesy burger patty, and top with bun. Serve hot and enjoy!

 

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.

You can prep the patties and cheese mixture up to 24 hours in advance.

Want to grill instead? Follow the same cook times over medium-high heat.

Pair with sweet potato fries or coleslaw for the full experience.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Dishes
• Method: Skillet / Grilled
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1
• Calories: 940
• Sugar: 7
• Sodium: 2030
• Fat: 61
• Saturated Fat: 24
• Unsaturated Fat: 30
• Trans Fat: 2
• Carbohydrates: 35
• Fiber: 2
• Protein: 60
• Cholesterol: 205

Why People Are Obsessed with Crack Burgers

The obsession with the crack burger recipe boils down to one simple fact: it delivers flavor overload in the best possible way. Unlike ordinary burgers, this recipe layers multiple umami-rich ingredients, giving your taste buds a full workout. Here’s why people can’t get enough:

• Flavor Complexity: The ranch seasoning adds a flavorful blend of herbs and savory goodness that pairs perfectly with the beef. The cheese mixture, with its creamy and salty notes, melds beautifully with crispy bacon and sweet caramelized onions.
• Perfect Texture Balance: Each bite combines the juicy tenderness of the patty with the crunch of bacon and the soft melt of cheese. The toasted buns add a slight crispiness, creating the ideal texture contrast.
• Customizable and Easy: Whether you prefer grilling or skillet-cooking, swapping cheeses, or adding extra toppings, the recipe remains foolproof. Busy families and food enthusiasts alike appreciate how simple it is to elevate this dish with minimal effort.
• Social Proof: As more people shared their versions online, the buzz grew. Instagram reels, YouTube cooking shows, and TikTok clips showcase variations that keep fueling the obsession.

If you’re new to making crowd-pleasing dishes at home, don’t miss our Quick & Easy Recipe section where you’ll find simple yet delicious meals perfect for busy days.

Ingredients for the Perfect Crack Burger

The Essential Components of a Crack Burger

The magic of the crack burger recipe lies in its simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each one plays a critical role in creating the signature flavors and textures that make this burger so irresistible. Let’s break down exactly what you’ll need to replicate this addictive dish at home.

For the Beef Patties:

• Ground Beef (80/20 Blend): The extra fat keeps the patties juicy, packed with flavor, and perfectly tender as they cook.
• Ranch Seasoning: This is the secret ingredient that adds a herby, savory kick.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the beef and enhancing the natural flavors.

For the Cheese Mixture:

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts perfectly over the patties, creating a rich and gooey topping.
• Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess to the cheese mixture.
• Crumbled Bacon: Brings that irresistible crispy, smoky crunch.
• Additional Ranch Seasoning: Infuses even more flavor into the cheese blend.

For Assembling:

• Burger Buns: Opt for soft, sturdy buns that can hold up to the juicy patty and toppings.
• Melted Butter: Brushing the buns before toasting adds a golden, buttery finish.
• Chopped Onions: Caramelized to bring a sweet depth of flavor.

These ingredients work together to deliver a burger that is rich, savory, creamy, and slightly sweet with a satisfying crunch. The ranch seasoning and bacon take this beyond your average cheeseburger into flavor territory you’ll crave again and again.

Optional Ingredients and Variations

One of the best things about the crack burger recipe is how easily you can adapt it to your personal tastes. Here are a few popular variations:

• Different Cheeses: Try Swiss, Pepper Jack, Blue Cheese, or even Gouda for new flavor profiles.
• Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the cheese mixture for some heat.
• Alternative Proteins: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version while keeping the same addictive toppings.
• Fresh Greens: Toss in some lettuce, arugula, or spinach to add a refreshing crunch.
• Avocado Slices: It adds a smooth, creamy texture with a hint of buttery flavor.

Trying out these variations lets you craft a version that’s all your own while keeping the irresistible charm of the crack burger.

Check out our Drinks & Desserts section for some delicious treats that would perfectly complement your crack burger meal.

Step-By-Step Guide to Make Crack Burgers

Preparing the Beef Patties and Cheese Mixture

Making the crack burger recipe at home is surprisingly simple, even for novice cooks. The key is to focus on preparation to ensure everything comes together flawlessly when you start cooking.

Step 1: Form the Beef Patties

1. Place 300g of ground beef (80/20 blend) in a large bowl, then add 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper.
2. Carefully blend everything together, making sure not to overmix so the patties stay tender and juicy.
3. Divide the mixture into two equal portions and shape them into evenly sized patties, about ¾-inch thick. Press a slight dimple in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

1. In another bowl, combine 3 oz of shredded cheddar cheese, 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons of crumbled bacon, and 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning.
2. Stir until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency that will easily spread and melt over your patties.

By preparing both the patties and the cheese mixture ahead of time, you streamline the cooking process and ensure each component is ready for its turn in the pan.

Cooking, Assembling, and Serving

Step 3: Cook the Patties and Onions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface.
2. Place the beef patties into the hot skillet. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping occasionally to achieve a beautiful sear on both sides.
3. In the final minutes of cooking, spoon the prepared cheese mixture onto each patty. Put a lid on the skillet so the cheese melts smoothly over the patties.
4. Take the patties out of the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes.
5. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 1 chopped onion. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring now and then, until the onions turn soft, caramelize, and develop a slight char.

Step 4: Toast the Buns

1. Lightly coat the insides of both burger buns with melted butter.
2. Lay the buns, buttered side down, onto the hot skillet or griddle and toast them until they’re golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble the Crack Burger

1. Start with the bottom bun.
2. Add a generous layer of the caramelized onions.
3. Place the cheesy beef patty on top.
4. Finish with the top bun and serve right away to enjoy the best flavor and freshness.

Pro tip: Serving these burgers fresh off the skillet guarantees the cheese remains gooey, the buns stay crisp, and every bite bursts with flavor.

Don’t miss our Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe if you want to add another family-favorite dish to your dinner lineup!

Expert Tips for the Best Crack Burger Recipe

How to Achieve the Perfect Sear and Juicy Patty

Creating a restaurant-quality crack burger recipe at home isn’t just about the ingredients; it’s about technique. The following expert tips will help you nail the perfect sear while keeping your patties juicy and flavorful.

Use High-Quality Ground Beef (80/20 Blend)
The fat-to-lean ratio is critical. An 80/20 ground beef blend delivers juicy, flavorful patties that won’t dry out during cooking. The fat melts into the meat as it cooks, ensuring every bite is moist and rich.

Preheat the Skillet
Be sure the skillet is nice and hot before placing the patties in it. A hot surface ensures you get a beautiful sear that locks in juices and adds a delicious crust.

Don’t Overwork the Beef
Mix the seasonings into the ground beef gently. Overworking the mixture makes the patties dense and tough. A light touch results in tender, juicy burgers.

Avoid Pressing the Patties While Cooking
It may be tempting to press down on the patties with your spatula, but this forces out flavorful juices. Let the patties cook undisturbed to retain moisture.

Rest Before Serving
Rest Before Serving
Once cooked, let the patties rest for a few minutes before assembling. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite stays flavorful. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite stays flavorful.

Pro Tips for Flavor-Packed Toppings

The real magic of the crack burger recipe lies in its toppings. Each layer adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile. Here’s how to perfect them:

Perfect Caramelized Onions
Cook chopped onions on medium heat, stirring occasionally. Patience pays off, as slowly caramelizing the onions gives you sweet, golden perfection that pairs wonderfully with the savory beef.

Elevate the Cheese Mixture
While cheddar is a classic choice, don’t hesitate to experiment. Pepper Jack adds heat, Swiss introduces a nutty flavor, and blue cheese brings a sharp, tangy contrast. Always blend with mayonnaise for a creamy, spreadable texture.

Crispy Bacon Perfection
Cook your bacon until it’s golden and crispy. This texture balances the creamy cheese mixture and juicy patty, providing that irresistible crunch.

Toast the Buns
Lightly buttering and toasting the buns creates a crispy, buttery surface that holds up against the burger’s juicy interior without becoming soggy.

Fresh is Best
Assemble and serve your crack burger immediately. The gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and warm buns are at their absolute best right after cooking.

Gordon Ramsay’s Burger Secrets Compared

What Gordon Ramsay Adds to Elevate His Burgers

Gordon Ramsay, known for his culinary mastery, takes burger-making to an entirely different level. While his techniques differ slightly from the crack burger recipe, many of his principles can enhance your burger game tremendously. Let’s break down some of his key secrets:

Premium Ground Beef Blend
Ramsay suggests blending chuck, brisket, and short rib to create patties bursting with rich, beefy flavor. The high-fat content keeps the patties juicy and packed with rich, beefy goodness.

Season Simply and Generously
Like the crack burger recipe, Gordon Ramsay keeps seasonings minimal but impactful. Coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper are his go-to. This method lets the beef’s natural taste stand out while giving the rich toppings a chance to steal the show.

Ice-Cold Patties
Ramsay stresses the importance of keeping the patties chilled right up until cooking time. This prevents fat from melting too soon, ensuring maximum juiciness when cooked.

Hot Cast-Iron Skillet
Similar to our method, Ramsay insists on a screaming-hot skillet to create a beautiful sear and caramelization on the outside while keeping the inside moist.

Butter Basting
Halfway through cooking, Ramsay often adds butter, garlic, and fresh thyme or rosemary to the skillet. Basting the patties with this aromatic butter adds an extra layer of richness and complexity.

Incorporating Celebrity Chef Techniques into Crack Burgers

While the crack burger recipe already delivers bold, addictive flavors, adopting some of Gordon Ramsay’s techniques can elevate your homemade burger to gourmet status.

Blend Beef Cuts: If you want to take it up a notch, consider blending chuck and brisket for deeper flavor, while still maintaining the easy prep of ground beef.

Herb-Infused Butter Basting: Adding a touch of butter, garlic, and thyme during cooking can infuse the patties with subtle layers of aroma without overpowering the signature ranch-bacon-cheddar combination.

Chill Your Patties: Preparing the patties in advance and keeping them chilled until cooking helps maintain the integrity of the fat, ensuring every bite remains juicy.

Simplify the Seasoning: Resist the urge to overload with spices. The ranch seasoning, cheese, and bacon already provide layers of flavor; light seasoning on the beef keeps the balance perfect.

When you blend Ramsay’s expert techniques with the rich, indulgent flavors of the crack burger recipe, you end up with a burger that’s both incredibly crave-worthy and refined enough to wow any food enthusiast.

Understanding the 5-6-7 Rule for Burgers

Breaking Down the 5-6-7 Grilling Method

When perfecting the crack burger recipe, mastering cooking time is crucial. That’s where the famous 5-6-7 rule comes into play. This simple rule guides you in achieving the ideal doneness for your burgers, whether you’re cooking in a skillet or on the grill.

• 5 Minutes for rare burgers
• 6 Minutes for medium burgers
• 7 Minutes for well-done burgers

Using this rule ensures your crack burger recipe comes out perfectly every time. It takes the guesswork out of cooking and allows you to cater to everyone’s preference without sacrificing the juicy, flavorful core of your crack burger.

Pro Tip: If you’re adding the rich cheese and bacon mixture from the crack burger recipe, aim for medium doneness (around 6 minutes) to balance the juicy patty with the gooey topping.

Applying This Rule to Your Crack Burger Recipe

The crack burger recipe thrives when you respect proper cooking times. Here’s how you can apply the 5-6-7 rule directly to your homemade version:

1. Preheat your skillet or grill to medium-high heat. A properly heated cooking surface ensures your beef sears quickly, locking in juices.
2. Cook your patties based on desired doneness:
   • For a rare crack burger, cook 2½ minutes per side.
   • For medium crack burgers, cook 3 minutes per side.
   • For well-done crack burgers, cook 3½ minutes per side.
3. Add the cheese mixture in the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Covering the skillet or closing the grill lid allows the cheese blend to melt into that signature gooey, creamy layer that defines the crack burger recipe.
4. Rest your patties briefly after cooking. Even a couple of minutes helps redistribute the juices, keeping your crack burger moist and flavorful.

By combining this proven cooking rule with the bold flavors of your crack burger recipe, you ensure consistent, mouthwatering results every single time. Whether you’re preparing a quick family dinner or showing off at your next cookout, understanding timing is key to making your crack burger recipe truly shine.

Applying This Rule to Your Crack Burger Recipe

The crack burger recipe thrives when you respect proper cooking times. Here’s how you can apply the 5-6-7 rule directly to your homemade version:

1. Preheat your skillet or grill to medium-high heat. A hot cooking surface lets the beef sear fast, sealing in all those flavorful juices.
2. Cook your patties based on desired doneness:
   • For a rare crack burger, cook 2½ minutes per side.
   • For medium crack burgers, cook 3 minutes per side.
   • For well-done crack burgers, cook 3½ minutes per side.
3. Add the cheese mixture in the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Covering the skillet or closing the grill lid allows the cheese blend to melt into that signature gooey, creamy layer that defines the crack burger recipe.
4. Rest your patties briefly after cooking. Even a couple of minutes helps redistribute the juices, keeping your crack burger moist and flavorful.

By combining this proven cooking rule with the bold flavors of your crack burger recipe, you ensure consistent, mouthwatering results every single time. Whether you’re preparing a quick family dinner or showing off at your next cookout, understanding timing is key to making your crack burger recipe truly shine.

Delicious Sides and Pairings for Crack Burgers

Classic and Creative Side Dish Ideas

The crack burger recipe already delivers a powerhouse of flavor, but the right side dishes can turn your meal into a complete feast. When you’re enjoying a rich, juicy crack burger, you’ll want sides that complement not compete with its bold taste.

Crispy French Fries
It’s hard to beat the classic burger-and-fries combo. The salty, crunchy texture of well-seasoned fries balances beautifully with the creamy cheese and bacon-laden crack burger recipe.

Sweet Potato Fries
For a slightly healthier alternative, sweet potato fries offer a touch of natural sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the savory richness of your crack burger.

Onion Rings
Crunchy, golden onion rings echo the caramelized onions inside the crack burger recipe, amplifying that sweet-savory experience.

Coleslaw
A light, tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the dense, cheesy patty. The crisp texture of cabbage pairs wonderfully with the soft bun and juicy burger.

Grilled Corn on the Cob
Lightly buttered and sprinkled with a bit of seasoning, grilled corn is a fantastic summer side that won’t overwhelm the robust flavors of your crack burger.

Loaded Potato Salad
If you want to double down on comfort food, creamy loaded potato salad with bacon, cheese, and green onions mirrors some of the key flavors in your crack burger recipe while offering a cool, creamy counterbalance.

Beverage Pairings to Complete Your Meal

The right drink alongside your crack burger can take your whole meal to the next level. Here are some ideal options:

Craft Beer
A hoppy IPA or rich stout can hold its own against the salty, cheesy elements of the crack burger recipe while cutting through its richness.

Classic Lemonade
Lemonade’s sweet and tangy kick refreshes your taste buds and perfectly balances the burger’s rich, savory flavors.

Iced Tea
Unsweetened or lightly sweetened iced tea brings a cooling contrast, keeping each bite of your crack burger feeling light and satisfying.

For more fresh, family-friendly meal ideas, discover our Drinks & Dessert section and find perfect pairings that transform your crack burger recipe night into an unforgettable event.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

Prepping Patties and Toppings in Advance

One of the best things about the crack burger recipe is how well it lends itself to prep work. With just a little planning, you can make your burger night even easier and stress-free.

Prepare Patties Ahead of Time
Prepare the ground beef mixture by adding ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper as you normally would. Shape the patties and set them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Wrap them securely in plastic or seal in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld, intensifying the savory elements of your crack burger recipe.

Make the Cheese Mixture in Advance
You can whip up the cheesy topping in advance by mixing shredded cheddar, mayo, ranch seasoning, and crispy bacon bits. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. Stir briefly before using to ensure a smooth consistency.

Caramelize Onions Beforehand
Cooked caramelized onions will keep in the fridge for 3 to 4 days without losing flavor. Prepare them in advance and simply reheat when assembling your crack burgers.

Best Practices for Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Even though the crack burger recipe is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can still taste amazing if stored and reheated properly.

Storing Leftover Patties
Once fully cooked, allow your burger patties to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container or wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze cooked patties for up to 3 months. Just separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating Tips
To maintain the juicy texture of your crack burger recipe, avoid the microwave when reheating. Instead:

• Use a skillet over medium-low heat.
• Place a lid over the skillet to lock in moisture as the patties reheat.
• If they start to dry out, pour in a little water or broth to keep them juicy.

Reassembling Your Crack Burger
Once reheated, layer your crack burger with the caramelized onions, fresh-toasted buns, and any additional toppings. This quick refresh will restore much of the original indulgent experience.

By prepping components in advance and properly storing leftovers, you ensure that every serving of your crack burger recipe stays as mouthwatering as the first.

Why You Must Try This Crack Burger Recipe

If you’re craving a burger that goes far beyond the basics, the crack burger recipe is your ultimate go-to. With its juicy, ranch-seasoned beef patty, creamy cheddar-bacon topping, and golden toasted buns, this burger delivers a knockout punch of flavor in every bite. It’s loaded with bold, savory flavors, a hint of sweetness, and an irresistible quality that lives up to its name.

Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner, grilling for a crowd, or simply treating yourself to something indulgent, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. And the best part? No chef skills required this crack burger recipe is simple to follow and ideal for busy cooks who crave big flavor without the fuss.

Give it one try, and you’ll be hooked. Be sure to check out our site for more quick and delicious recipes to add to your lineup. Looking for inspiration? Try this natural mounjaro recipe for a fresh, detox-friendly drink to pair with your burgers.

Your next unforgettable burger experience starts now.

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